Communication Degree

This is a general overview of the program of study. Students interested in details and requirements should go to the on line catalogue.

Why consider a major or a minor in Communication at Purdue North Central?

Communication is an area of study that opens up many doors, yet closes very few. Graduates can be found working in organizations of all shapes and sizes. Classes are relatively small, so the courses are more personal. In addition, the department places great emphasis on service learning, with several courses containing a service learning component. This means that students obtain real world work experience with community organizations meeting community needs at the same time they are fulfilling course objectives. The department also encourages qualified students to pursue internship opportunities.

Communication faculty place an emphasis on real-world applications. In addition to the case studies and in-depth class discussions, students can participate in the Panther News Network, oral interpretation presentations to the public, a variety of exciting service learning opportunities, and internships with important organizations.

Communication involves a broad area of study that may lead to job opportunities in a wide range of fields. Communication majors study the creation, sending, receiving and interpreting of messages in a variety of contexts including interpersonal, small group, and public speaking. The focus is on the development of critical awareness, analysis and persuasion skills.

Key Skills Developed:

Public speaking

Writing for press releases and promotional materials

Developing persuasive strategies

Critical thinking

Working under deadlines

Attention to detail

Creativity

Ability to gather and process data

Researching and organizing reports

Leading teams

Managing diversity

Related Career Opportunities Across a Range of Industries:

In Business:

Event Planning Specialist

Manager

Presenter

Public Relations Officer

Recruiter

Sales Representative

Speech Writer

Technical Writer

Training and Development

In TV/Radio/Print Journalism:

Actor

Advertising Copywriter

Electronic Publications Specialist

Sports Promoter

Newswriter

Public Relations Writer

Reporter

Programmer

Author

In the Nonprofit Sector:

Administrator

Grant writer

Volunteer coordinator

In Government and Law:

Campaign Manager

Elected Official

Lobbyist

Media Specialist

Speech Writer

Planning director

Recreation Coordinator

Youth Worker

Scholarships

Internships

The internship is a career development concept and an important starting point that involves placing students in off-campus work assignments. The work assignment is closely related to the student’s course of study and his/her professional goals. The internship must also contribute to the objectives of the participating employer. Participating students must be in good academic standing at the University (have and maintain at least a 3.0/4.0 GPA) or have special approval of the Internship Coordinator, Dr. Scott Smithson. Up to three hours of academic credit may be earned in a single semester with a maximum of six internship credit hours overall.